We are pleased to welcome you to the Autumn 2026 edition of our Professional Institutes and Membership Bodies (PIMBs) briefing.
In our Spring edition, we explored a number of themes around regulatory change, compliance and evolving reporting requirements. Many of those developments continue to gather pace and this edition picks up that conversation. From the implementation of revised FRS 102 requirements and changes to charity reporting frameworks, to developments in tax administration, international operations and emerging technologies, organisations are being asked to navigate an increasingly complex landscape while maintaining strong governance and operational resilience.
I begin by examining the new company size thresholds, which represent the most significant revision to the Companies Act framework for many years. Alongside changes to charity audit thresholds and the introduction of SORP 2026, these developments may reduce reporting burdens for some organisations whilst simultaneously introducing important new accounting and reporting considerations. The article explores what trustees and finance teams should be thinking about now as the new framework takes effect.
Following our Spring article on the revised revenue recognition requirements in FRS 102, Emma Gabe, Senior Manager, examines another significant outcome of the periodic review: the introduction of a new lease accounting model for lessees. While revenue recognition may have attracted much of the initial attention, the practical impact of bringing most leases onto the balance sheet is likely to be equally significant for many membership organisations.
Regulatory reform extends beyond financial reporting. Nick Bustin, Director and Head of Employment Tax, considers HMRC’s phased introduction of mandatory payrolling of Benefits in Kind, one of the most significant changes to employee benefit reporting in recent years. The article highlights why employers should view the reform not simply as a payroll compliance exercise, but as a wider organisational project requiring coordination across payroll, HR, finance and employee communications.
VAT developments feature prominently in this edition. Phil Salmon, Partner and Co-Head of VAT, provides an update on a number of government initiatives that signal the continuing digitalisation of the tax system, including developments in Making Tax Digital, electronic invoicing and VAT administration. These measures give a clear indication of the direction of travel towards increased digital reporting and greater use of transactional data by tax authorities.
Looking beyond the UK, Charlotte Wain, Senior Manager, explores the VAT considerations arising from international expansion. As many membership organisations seek to strengthen their global presence, overseas branches and member activities can create unexpected VAT obligations and compliance requirements. Charlotte considers why international VAT should be viewed as a strategic issue and the importance of addressing tax considerations early when planning overseas growth.
Finally, Rakesh Vaitha, Director, examines the governance and risk considerations associated with the growing adoption of artificial intelligence. As organisations increasingly explore the opportunities presented by AI, boards must also ensure appropriate oversight, risk management and governance frameworks are in place. Rakesh’s article considers how organisations can harness emerging technologies responsibly while maintaining effective control and accountability.
We hope this edition provides useful insight and practical guidance as you navigate the opportunities and challenges arising from this rapidly evolving landscape. If any of the topics discussed resonate with your organisation, please do get in touch with the authors or your usual HaysMac contact.
